Falls Prevention Awareness Month

Falls Prevention Awareness Month shines a light on one of the most pressing public health concerns facing older adults: the risk of falling.

While falls are often seen as a natural part of aging, the truth is that many can be prevented with the right mix of awareness, lifestyle choices, and community support. In Olmsted County, this issue carries particular urgency. Rates of fall-related deaths are nearly double the national average, and about six percent of older adults in the county report needing medical attention after a fall. For families, caregivers, and health professionals, these numbers underscore the importance of coming together to create safer environments and stronger support systems.

Local organizations in Olmsted County have taken that challenge to heart. The Rochester–Olmsted Falls Prevention Coalition leads the way, offering free home safety visits to residents over the age of 55. These visits, conducted by trained volunteers, provide tailored advice on reducing hazards—whether that means removing clutter, adding grab bars in the bathroom, or improving lighting in high-traffic areas. The coalition also offers educational presentations for community groups, giving neighbors and organizations the tools to talk openly about prevention.

Family Service Rochester plays a crucial role as well, supporting older adults through free home safety checks and connecting them to resources that help extend independent living. Even something as simple as attending a Senior Café lunch can make a difference by combining social connection with practical access to safety information. Olmsted Medical Center’s Active Aging Services also adds another layer of support, offering consultations to assess strength, balance, and medications, while Community Health Workers provide in-home evaluations followed by tailored provider recommendations. Together, these efforts create a web of support designed to help people age well—and safely—in their own homes.

Preventing falls is not just about making the home safer. It also involves paying attention to physical health and regular medical care. Activities like tai chi, yoga, or even brisk walking can improve balance and flexibility, making falls less likely. Annual vision and hearing exams are essential, since changes in sensory health can increase risks. Medication reviews with healthcare providers can uncover side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness that may make someone more vulnerable to falling. Taken together, these actions help empower older adults and their families to make proactive choices that reduce risk.

Falls Prevention Awareness Month is marked nationally each September, with September 22 designated as Falls Prevention Awareness Day. In Olmsted County, that awareness translates into roundtable discussions, educational events, and outreach tailored to both independent seniors and those in assisted living. These activities aim to spark conversation and encourage individuals to take advantage of local services.

There are also simple, meaningful ways to make a difference in Olmsted County. Residents can schedule a free home safety visit through Family Service Rochester, join exercise classes that focus on balance and strength, or volunteer as part of the Home Safety Corps to help neighbors live more safely and independently. Sharing prevention tips through social media or community networks helps amplify the message that falls are not inevitable, and that every step toward prevention is a step toward preserving independence and quality of life.

Falls may be common, but they are far from unavoidable. Through collaboration, education, and community commitment, Olmsted County is proving that prevention works. This September, and in the months that follow, each of us can play a role in making our community a safer place to grow older.

For more information about falls prevention including additional local data resources for older adult services, exercised based programs, healthcare, and things you can do at home check out Olmsted County Healthy Homes Falls Prevention.